The certification from the national board confirms the Gilbert plastic surgeon's training and experience with cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.

Gilbert, Arizona (March 2015) — Dr. Josh Olson (www.advancedplasticsurgeryinstitute.com), a Gilbert plastic surgeon who trained internationally after completing his residency at the University of Utah, is now certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) to perform cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.

"I'm honored to be among the physicians known as board-certified plastic surgeons," Dr. Olson says. "The training and experience required to earn certification from the board are extensive — it was hard work that I feel great about accomplishing, particularly because it shows my patients that they are in good hands."

The ABPS certifies physicians for plastic and reconstructive surgery of the entire body, including the head and neck, trunk, and arms and legs. It is the only board related to plastic surgery that is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties, which regulates physician standards around the country.

"Some doctors are certified by other boards that are not recognized," says Dr. Olson, who opened his reconstructive and cosmetic surgery practice in Gilbert, AZ in 2013. "These surgeons may perform cosmetic procedures, but there's no guarantee for patients that they have the same level of experience with these specialized treatments."

The rigorous standards surgeons meet to be certified by the ABPS are unmatched by any other organization. Certification requires a plastic surgeon has:

Graduated from an accredited medical school

Completed at least 5 years of additional training as a resident surgeon in an accredited program, including at least 2 years devoted to plastic surgery

Practiced plastic surgery for at least 2 years after completing residency training

Passed comprehensive written and oral exams

Demonstrated appropriate decision making and excellent outcomes with cases performed during the first year following training

Dr. Olson specializes in a range of procedures for the face, body, and breasts at his practice, including popular treatments such as facelift, tummy tuck, and breast augmentation surgeries. His Advanced Plastic Surgery Institute serves the Paradise Valley-Phoenix area, in addition to communities surrounding Gilbert.

"I encourage women and men who are thinking about surgical or non-surgical cosmetic enhancement to make sure the plastic surgeon they choose is certified by the ABPS, whether or not that surgeon happens to be me," Dr. Olson says. "Even minimally invasive or non-invasive cosmetic treatments are medical procedures that should be performed by a provider with the appropriate training and experience."

If you're looking for a board-certified plastic surgeon in the Paradise Valley and Gilbert area, request a consultation online with Dr. Olson or call the Advanced Plastic Surgery Institute at (480) 466-7355.